How to handle stress and anxiety in music production?

Abstract

The music industry does not provide mental healthcare for people working in music production. Everybody must find their own methods and solutions for their mental health problems. Most music producers and audio engineers work individually without a safety net, permanent employment, proper contracts, or legal laws. There is no limit to work hours, projects, or deadlines. Music producers do not have any organised methods to help themselves. Some producers work their whole careers with poor mental health. Nowadays, record companies may offer mental health care to artists but not to music producers. The thesis studied why some music producers suffer from mental pressure in their working careers and how they pursue and sustain their careers with these cognitive challenges. This study aimed to find different methods for music producers to find solutions for the mental health problems in the music industry. Bands, artists, songwriters, AI, etc., have been excluded from the thesis.

As the research method, professional music producers, audio engineers, and a doctor were interviewed to gather qualitative data. In addition to the interviews, the material was collected from books and articles related to the music industry, business, and functional medicine. Even though this thesis provides methods to help the journey to become a healthier music producer, it is not medical research.

This thesis aims to provide helpful information for music producers on dealing with stress and anxiety in music production and maintaining performance and mental health when working under pressure. It provides a practical guide for those finding solutions for mental disorders in music production. The results show how music producers can help themselves for better mental health when working in the music industry and how to find new points of view for better mental health. Creating and maintaining a sense of self-worth, healthy boundaries, proper scheduling, financial management, etc., improves a music producer's mental health and reduces stress.

In conclusion, there are ways to improve music producers' mental health. Even when the industry does not offer healthcare, the music producer must be responsible for creating and complying with their limits. Understanding and discussing the topic with people in the music industry can reduce problems in the industry and give music producers a longer and better working career.